How Ciara O'Modhrain Is Leading the Charge to Save Uganda

This 21-year-old found her own way of improving the lives of Uganda's children.

CAUSE: One of the biggest challenges in non-profit work is finding ways to create long-lasting change by empowering the local community. But in 2009, California native Ciara and her family recognized this and founded US2Uganda4Life, an organization committed to improving the lives and livelihood of children at the Jireh Children's Center and the Kalungi Medical Clinic in Uganda by providing means of sustainable support.

EFFECT: Since they started the organization four years ago, US2Uganda4life has helped install solar-powered latrines and rocket stoves at the children's center. They've also sent dozens of medical teams to help train nurses at the clinic. In fact, the Kalungi clinic was approved by the government to start a training school for nurses—so now, it's not only the village of Lukaia that's being reached, but many other surrounding villages as well.

GETTING INVOLVED: If you'd like to lend a hand to US2Uganda4Life's efforts, visit their website us2uganda4life.org

IN HER OWN WORDS: "This past summer I had the privilege of leading my own team out to Masaka. The best part about this trip is that it was 11 college-age students who, despite being told we were 'too young,' were able to spend time bringing hope and love to a group of teenage orphans. Lesson learned: you're never too young to make a difference."

"My favorite part about working in Uganda is engaging with the people. I never cease to be amazed, when working with those in poverty, both here in the United States and abroad, that most people's material worth doesn't necessarily determine their joy. The Ugandans are the most loving and hospitable people I have ever met, and despite intense poverty and disease, they overflow with happiness and a lust for life."

"What I think you need to realize is that every single person has the ability to show love to another individual. As clichéd as it may seem, it is the easiest way to cross any cultural or linguistic barrier. And even if you never have the opportunity to travel the globe, this is a humanitarian effort you can easily accomplish in your own backyard. Recognize that poverty is everywhere—and it's everyone's job to fight it."